Customer Questions

Hi Elena,
Unfortunately, we don’t know when the Antelope Canyons might reopen. I know the Antelope Canyon tour operators are making a strong case with tribal leadership to allow business to resume, but it remains to be seen whether their pleas are being heard. To get the current the status of Antelope Canyon and other Navajo Nation Tribal Parks, we recommend monitoring the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department website. You can also request placement on our priority e-mail list to be notified the minute the canyons reopen. The Navajo-Hopi Observer (local Native American newspaper) might be another good source to bookmark.
If you prefer not to cancel your trip, which I don’t blame you a bit for, the nearest “hikeable” slot canyon to Page, AZ, is Wire Pass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch, near Paria, UT, ~1 hour’s drive from Page, AZ. This a two-part slot canyon that is fairly family-friendly, and a tour is not required to go there. You need only pay a $6/person day use fee via Recreation.gov (not covered by the National Park Pass). A nice thing about it is that you can easily piggy-back a short hike into Wire Pass with an exploration of the Paria Rimrocks/Toadstool Hoodoos Trail. The video linked above also shows that area, so do watch it all the way through. The only caveat about Wire Pass Canyon is that the trailhead is located down the House Rock Valley Road, an unpaved road that is passable to standard passenger vehicles most of the time, but if recent weather has been wet, it turns into red clay slip-n-slide, which will result in a lot of consternation and teeth-gnashing, and a VERY expensive tow bill.
I hope that helps! Please feel free to contact me directly if you need to bounce other ideas off me at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

June 03, 2021 at 4:03 PM

Hi Ashleigh,
First of all, I don’t recommend visiting Sedona as a “drive-by” between Phoenix and Page. It’s a 2-hour drive from Phoenix to Sedona, then an additional 3-hours to Page, AZ. After spending the better part of a day hiking in the summer heat, a 3-hour drive is probably the last thing you’ll want to face! Besides, Sedona is a huge and beautiful area with a lot to see and do. You’ll want to at least give it 1-2 nights, 3-4 is even better. What’s more, I recommend placing it at the end of your trip so you can relax and chill before heading back to reality LOL
RE: hiking, kayaking, any labor-intensive activities, at the time of year you’re visiting, you want to schedule these kinds of activities as early as you possibly can to take advantage of cooler temperatures. At the time of year you’re visiting, daytime highs can (and do) get up over 100-110 degrees. Not exactly idea conditions for hiking, but with proper sun protection and plenty of water, it can be done.
Using Phoenix as your staging city, here’s what I’d recommend
June 17: Fly to Phoenix, overnight in Phoenix
June 18: Drive to Page, AZ (~5 hours), visit Horseshoe Bend, overnight in Page, AZ
June 19: Kayak Antelope Canyon, 2nd night in Page, AZ
June 20: Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim (~3-3.5 hours from Page, AZ), stopping at viewpoints on East Rim/Desert View Drive en route to Grand Canyon Village, overnight at Grand Canyon
June 21: Drive to Sedona, AZ (~2.5 hours from GC South Rim), overnight in Sedona
June 22: Sightseeing in Sedona, AZ, possible activities: Pink Jeep Broken Arrow Tour, hike West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon, Bell Rock Trail, Fay Canyon, etc. Best hikes in Sedona, 2nd night in Sedona
June 23: Drive back to PHX (~2.5 hours from Sedona), fly home
Custom trip map
Whatever you decide, be sure to book all hotels and guided tours ASAP. Your trip is just around the corner! If you need further guidance, feel free to contact me directly at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

June 01, 2021 at 1:10 PM

_________________________________________

From Ashleigh Ward

Wow, you’re super helpful! I really appreciate the recommendations! I guess I hadn’t fully thought it through. I did consider spending the night in Sedona… but then we were gonna fly out of Vegas after leaving the grand canyon south rim area. Your plan sounds way better tho! 🙌🏾

June 01, 2021 at 4:22 PM

Hi Peter,
The walk-in lottery for the Wave is typically held 7 days a week over the summer months. If a weekend day falls on a holiday, such a July 4th being on a Sunday this year, they may hold the lottery on Friday for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at the Kanab Center Gymnasium. If you have any questions about that call (435) 644-1300.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 31, 2021 at 12:40 PM

Hi Blake!
To get the current the status of Antelope Canyon and other Navajo Nation Tribal Parks, we recommend monitoring the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department website. You can also request placement on our priority e-mail list to be notified the minute the canyons reopen. The Navajo-Hopi Observer (local newspaper) might be another good source to bookmark.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 28, 2021 at 1:17 PM

Hi Jan!
To inquire about availability for the Antelope Canyon Kayak/Hiking Tour, you must inquire directly with the concessionaire. The company referenced in this article is Lake Powell Hidden Canyon Kayak, who can be reached at (928) 660-1836. Should they not have availability for your desired date, other companies offering similar (or identical) services are:
– Lake Powell Paddleboards & Kayaks (928) 645-4017 www.lakepowellpaddleboards.com
– Lake Powell Adventure Co. (928) 660-9683 www.lakepowelladventure.com
– Kayak Lake Powell (928) 660-0778 www.kayakpowell.com
– WazSUP Kayak Rental (602) 233-2847 https://wazsupkayaks.com/
– Lake Powell Rentals & Retail (928) 614-8573 http://www.lakepowellvacations.com/
– Paddle Lake Powell (928) 660-2182 http://paddlelakepowell.com/
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 26, 2021 at 4:10 PM

Hey Meredith,
The good news is that the majority of parks you are wishing to visit are self-guiding, with a couple of notable — or one notable and one kinda-sorta — exception.
For the Antelope Canyons, a guided tour is 100% necessary. You may not enter these formations on your own, at least not the land side of them. More on that in a minute 😉 As you have deduced, the Antelope Canyons are unfortunately closed by Navajo Tribal Executive Order. We have no idea when they will reopen. The best place to monitor the current status is the official website of the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department. You may also request placement on our priority e-mail list to be notified the minute the canyons reopen.
If seeing a slot canyon remained high on your priority list, which we don’t blame you for one bit, a couple of alternatives are to kayak into the waterside of Antelope Canyon where it joins with Lake Powell. You beach your boat on the “pre-slot” portion of the Lower Canyon, where you can hike in a ways on land that is under Federal and not Tribal jurisdiction. Kayaking can be done by guided tour or rental and self-guide. Whatever you decide, this activity is best done first thing in the morning for lack of wind and smoother waters.
If you prefer to go on foot, the nearest “hikeable” slot canyon to Page, AZ, is Wire Pass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch, near Paria, UT, ~1 hour’s drive from Page, AZ. This a two-part slot canyon that is fairly family-friendly, and a tour is not required to go there. You need only pay a $6/person day use fee via Recreation.gov (not covered by the National Park Pass). A nice thing about it is that you can easily piggy-back a short hike into Wire Pass with an exploration of the Paria Rimrocks/Toadstool Hoodoos Trail. The video linked above also shows that area, so do watch it all the way through. The only caveat about Wire Pass Canyon is that the trailhead is located down the House Rock Valley Road, an unpaved road that is passable to standard passenger vehicles most of the time, but if recent weather has been wet, it turns into red clay slip-n-slide, which will result in a lot of consternation and teeth-gnashing, and a VERY expensive tow bill.
Horseshoe Bend can be visited at your leisure anytime during regular operating hours of the parking lot, which are sunrise to sunset. There is a $10/vehicle parking fee, which is not covered by your National Park Pass.
In Zion National Park, if you are not staying at the Zion Lodge, you will be required to use the Zion Canyon Shuttle to access the main sightseeing area of the park. Due to COVID-19, and NPS’s desire to facilitate continued social distancing, shuttles are operating at reduced capacity, therefore, advance ticket purchase is required. These sell out fast, so be sure to get online and grab yours as soon as they are released through Recreation.gov If it sounds like a pain in the tookus, frankly it is. You might opt to go with a guided tour, or skip the Zion Canyon area altogether, which isn’t as bad as it sounds, there is plenty to see and do accessible via UT-9 on the Eastern side of the park (near Kanab, UT), or the Western end of the park (near Springdale, UT). Another option would be to day-trip from wherever you’re staying to the Kolob Canyon area of the park, which is gorgeous and tends to be a lot less crowded, probably because it has virtually no services.
I hope that helps, I know it’s a lot to process. If you need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 26, 2021 at 4:24 PM

Hey Kiet,
Unfortunately, we don’t know yet when or even if the Antelope Canyons will reopen for this season. The Navajo Tribe was hit really hard by COVID-19 from the jump and are erring on the far side of caution to protect their citizens, which we don’t blame them for.
We would advise monitoring the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department website for status updates, or request to be placed on our priority e-mail notification list to get the heads up the minute the canyons reopen. Should they reopen to tourists by the time you visit, Lower Antelope would probably be fine for your traveling party given that everyone is in relatively good health. The key, due to the size of your party, will be making Antelope Canyon tour reservations as soon as you get the word that they have reopened. The tour operators expect to be operating at reduced capacity in order to facilitate continued social distancing.
In the meantime, do consider kayaking into the waterside of Antelope Canyon, which is on Federal and not Tribal land, or hiking one of several alternate slot canyons which are not located on Navajo land. The nearest one to Page, AZ, is Wire Pass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch. As you can see from this video, young families can easily enjoy a hike into this photogenic two-part slot, and piggy-back that onto an exploration of the Paria Rimrock/Toadstool Hoodoos area. The only caveat re: Wire Pass and Buckskin is that the trailhead is located down the House Rock Valley Road, which is unpaved. While it is passable for 2WD vehicles most of the time, if recent weather has brought any precipitation, you’ll want to give it a miss, unless you relish the idea of getting your vehicle stuck in the mud and being on the hook for a super-expensive tow bill *sarcasm*
Hope that helps. If you need further guidance, please write me directly at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂

May 24, 2021 at 2:47 PM

Russell & Carol,
Congratulations on securing cabin reservations for Grand Canyon North Rim!
Your name has been placed on a priority e-mail waiting list to be notified of when the Antelope Canyons reopen. Please note that does not constitute a reservation for an Antelope Canyon tour. If you wish to make a reservation, or be placed on a waiting list with a Lower Antelope Canyon tour company, please contact:
– Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours (928) 606-2168 http://lowerantelope.com
– Dixie Ellis’ Antelope Lower Canyon Tours (928) 640-1761 http://antelopelowercanyon.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 23, 2021 at 1:30 PM

Hey Rocky,
With Page, AZ, being a popular vacation spot, and people chomping at the bit to get out and travel again due to COVID-19, we would strongly advise booking a campsite in advance. Most take reservations up to 6 months ahead, but 1-2 months out is usually sufficient leadtime to get a reservation.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 20, 2021 at 3:51 PM

Hi Sara,
We don’t know yet. We would advise monitoring the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department website for status updates, or request to be placed on our priority e-mail notification list to get the heads up the minute the canyons reopen.
In the meantime, consider kayaking into the waterside of Antelope Canyon, which is on Federal and not Tribal land, or hiking one of several alternate slot canyons which are not located on Navajo land. The nearest one to Page, AZ, is Wire Pass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 20, 2021 at 3:50 PM

Dear Mumax,
At this point in time, if you haven’t made hotel reservations, you’re going to have a rough time finding availability at Grand Canyon South Rim especially. Sorry to be blunt, but that’s the way things are. Start by seeing where you can find a place to stay, one night in Page, AZ, and one night at Grand Canyon South Rim. If at all possible try to hit Page, AZ (~2.5 hours drive from Flagstaff) first so you can hit Horseshoe Bend on the way into town, then take the Antelope Canyon kayak tour first thing the next morning. Drive down to Grand Canyon South Rim, taking advantage of the opportunity to stop at the half-dozen+ named Grand Canyon viewpoints between Desert View Point and Grand Canyon Village. Although the drive from Page, AZ to GC is only ~140 miles, it’s not unusual to take 3.5-4 hours to make the trip because the drive is very scenic.
As indicated before, Grand Canyon Village hotels are likely to be sold out, so you’ll probably have better luck in Tusayan 7 miles outside the park, or Williams, 60 miles South of the park. You might even have to go as far as Flagstaff, AZ, that night. Flag (that’s what we call it around here) is ~90 minutes from the park. Regardless of where you end up staying, be sure you do all driving during daylight hours. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the U.S. due to local roads being very dimly lit, and the tendency for deer, elk, and other wildlife to wander about after sundown. You don’t want to risk a collision with one in an unfamiliar area that’s pitch black, where cell service is spotty (IF you can get any bars at all), and help will be a long time coming, not to mention VERY expensive. At the time of your visit, sunrise occurs at 5:11 am and sunset takes place at 7:34 pm.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 19, 2021 at 5:39 PM

Hi Karla,
This is a really good question, unfortunately, the answer is “no.” Such actions are considered as attempts to “game the system,” which would result in the disqualification of all entries.
The good news is that the permit quota has been increased, with applying for the online lottery giving you the best chance.
Still, statistically, the odds are not in your favor for getting a permit for The Wave, so it’s best to start thinking of “Plan B’s,” the most popular being White Pocket. While this area doesn’t require a permit to visit, a guided tour is strongly recommended, since the access road is very sandy and quite hazardous to those inexperienced at 4×4/off-road driving. There are several companies offering tours to White Pocket, but the ones we’re most familiar with are Paria Outpost & Outfitters and Dreamland Safari Tours.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 07, 2021 at 4:45 PM

Hey Lindsey!
Yes, you can walk into the pre-slot portion of the lower canyon, which is on Federal and not Tribal land. If you’re expecting to see the same scenery as you would in one of the walking tours, it is not the same, but judging by the number of sold out dates for this tour last year, people didn’t mind it one bit.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 07, 2021 at 4:41 PM

Hi Kansha!
Unfortunately a key piece of information is missing from your inquiry: where you’re flying into/out of. That, along with hotel availability, tends to be the key determining factor in how your itinerary shakes out and what else you might be able to see and do.
Hopefully you have the freedom to make your trip as long as 7-8 days. 5 days really isn’t a lot when you consider all the opportunities available out here, COVID-19 restrictions notwithstanding!
If you are flying into/out of Vegas, as most visitors to this area tend to do, you could do something like this:
2 days in Sedona
1 day at Grand Canyon South Rim
1 day at Page, AZ (for Horseshoe Bend and kayaking Antelope Canyon)
1 day at Bryce
2 days at Zion
Map
If hotel availability, or lack thereof, necessitates it, you might also flip-flop the above itinerary. Sedona, AZ, makes for a nice place to chill and decompress before heading back to reality! LOL
If you need further guidance, please contact me directly at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 07, 2021 at 4:40 PM

Hi Daina,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news re: The Wave, it’s a 6+ mile round-trip hike that’s moderately difficult. It doesn’t sound like a good fit for you. Also, there’s the matter of getting a Wave permit, which is quite difficult on the best of days. One possible saving grace here, is that it is possible to charter a plane or a helicopter over The Wave. These are most readily available (by advance reservation) out of Page, Arizona. While neither aircraft would land at The Wave, you’d still see a ton of incredible scenery in addition to The Wave in a matter of minutes instead of hours. For more information, visit our companion site, TheWaveAZ.com and check out “So You Didn’t Get A Wave Permit – Now What?”
Upper Antelope Canyon or Secret Antelope Canyon would be more feasible for you, unfortunately, these are both closed due to COVID-19 and the closure of the Navajo Indian Reservation to tourists.
An alternative you might consider is Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT, ~1 hour from Page, AZ. Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which typically contains deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights, but a makeshift ladder has recently been placed in this area. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Look for some bighorn sheep petroglyphs dating back hundreds, maybe thousands of years! Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road. Hikers are required to pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 04, 2021 at 5:56 PM

Hey Jules,
This is an excellent question! The answer is, no, you do not need to apply for a Wave permit for your guide, just for the folks in your hiking party. The guides are already factored in by the BLM on any given day.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 04, 2021 at 5:47 PM

Hey Joe!
If you’re referring to the Antelope Canyons (walking tours), unfortunately, pets are not allowed. Dogs are welcome at Horseshoe Bend as long as they are leashed at all times and their owners pick up after them. They can also be brought into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area as long as they stay on paved trails. However, they are not allowed in any hotels rooms or in any restaurants. They are also not allowed on any tour vehicles or boats. If you are visiting during the summer months, I would recommend investing in some protective booties to protect your dogs’ paws from potentially hot sand or asphalt.
If you need to board your pets at any time while you’re in Page, AZ, this service is available at Pampered Pets of Page, AZ, or the Page Animal Hospital.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 03, 2021 at 6:49 PM

Hi Stacey,
Backtracking on one’s itinerary isn’t ideal, but if doing so affords you the opportunity to take the Horseshoe Bend Raft Trip (I assume that’s the trip you’re referring to?), go for it! You might contact Wilderness River Adventures from time to time to see if they have any cancellations for your preferred day. If not, don’t sweat it. It’s a very scenic drive, and doing it twice may turn you onto sites you may have missed the first time around.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

May 03, 2021 at 6:42 PM

Caitlin,
So sorry about the booking link! We’ll see about getting that fixed ASAP.
Meanwhile, Hidden Canyon Kayak’s phone number is (928) 660-1836, their website is www.lakepowellhiddencanyonkayak.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

April 26, 2021 at 1:26 PM

Hey Ernest,
I don’t do phone consultations, but am happy to share ideas with you via e-mail! Write me at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
🙂 Alley

April 26, 2021 at 7:32 PM

Hi Tara,
So sorry to report that the Antelope Canyons remain closed. Alternatives you may wish to consider are:
– Kayak tours of the waterside of Antelope Canyon that also include some hiking into the pre-slot portion of the lower canyon, which is in Federal and not Tribal land
– hiking in Wire Pass Canyon and/or Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT, which can be done with or without a guide; note that the trailhead to these canyons is located down the unpaved House Rock Valley Road, which can be rendered impassable after rain or snow events
– guided tour of Red Canyon, aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT; while a guided tour is not required by law, they are very strongly recommended due to the main access road being very sandy and difficult to navigate for those without prior 4WD experience. For a list of tour guides, visit our companion site www.TheWaveAZ.com: Hire A Guide
Good luck and safe travels.
Also, apologies for the delay in response to your question. We were hoping to get good news this week re: the Antelope Canyons, which unfortunately didn’t materialize.
Alley 🙂

April 20, 2021 at 3:13 PM

Hi Jenn,
Kayak tours may be enjoyed by kids as young as 5! Both kids would be required to travel in a tandem kayak with an adult, and first thing in the morning is the best time to take part in this activity for lack of wind and minimal chop from larger boat traffic. Trying to do this as a day trip out of Flagstaff, AZ, however is less than ideal. It takes ~2.5 hours to drive from Flagstaff, AZ, to Page, AZ, so you’d need to get a super-early start out of Flag (that’s what we call it around here), or better yet, spend the night prior at a hotel in Page, AZ.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

April 15, 2021 at 10:58 PM

Hey JP,
Yes, e-bikes are definitely a great family activity at Zion! Just about every company I was able to find, however, had a 12-14 year age limit. However, one company that rents kids bikes indicated that “exceptions could be made (to the age limit) on a case by case basis.” Also, they specify a certain height range for their kids bikes, in this case, 4’5″-5′. For more information, visit Zion Canyon Bike Rentals at ZionAdventures.com or you might try phoning them at 435.772.1001
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

April 09, 2021 at 10:43 PM

Hey Jackie,
I am wonderful, glad you are, too!
Unfortunately, we do not know whether the Antelope Canyons will be open for walking tours by June. You might consider doing a kayak tour of the waterside of Antelope Canyon on Lake Powell, which includes some hiking into the pre-slot portion of the Lower canyon, which is on Federal and not Tribal Land.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

April 08, 2021 at 6:37 PM

Hi Maha,
Your itinerary looks pretty fun, but I think you’ll regret not giving more time to Zion. Most folks need another day to attempt the Narrows after doing Angel’s Landing. Also, I should let you know that to do either hike requires the use of the Zion Canyon Shuttle, which you’ll need to purchase advance tickets for.
The Hidden Canyon Kayak tour does offer some hiking into the pre-slot portion of Lower Antelope Canyon, water level permitting.
Whatever you decide, be sure to book all hotels and guided tours well in advance.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

April 08, 2021 at 6:35 PM

Hi Maribel,
If hiking and water-based activities are a priority for your upcoming vacation, a great way to accomplish both objectives is the Hidden Canyon Kayak Tour. Meeting at Antelope Point Marina, you would paddle into the waterside of Antelope Canyon (the land side is currently closed), then hike into the ‘pre-slot’ portion of the canyon on the shoreline of Lake Powell, which is Federal and not Tribal land. While the scenery in this part of the canyon isn’t the “picture postcard” slot canyon scenery yo might be expecting, it’s still beautiful, and judging from the number of sold out dates last season, lots of other people thought so too!
While in the area, you should definitely visit Horseshoe Bend, as well as:
– Page Rim View Trail
– Glen Canyon Dam/Steel Arch Bridge
– Hanging Garden Trail & The Chains
– Glen Canyon Dam/White House Overlook
– Grand View Overlook Park
– The “New” Wave and Radio Tower Rock
– Gunfighter Canyon
– Wahweap Overlook
– Wahweap Swim Beach and/or Lone Rock Beach (located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which requires a $30/vehicle entrance fee, good for one week’s time)
If you have the time and/or inclination to venture a short distance over the border of Utah, other good stops are:
– Big Water Visitors Center & Dinosaur Museum
– Paria Rimrocks/Toadstool Hoodoos Trail
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 29, 2021 at 4:41 PM

Oh wow, thanks man! We’ll see about getting that fixed. Thank you kindly 🙂

March 26, 2021 at 4:36 PM

Hey Jeff,
Reservations for walking tours of Antelope Canyon are not being taken yet due to the continued closure of Navajo Indian Tribal Lands to outsiders. They won’t start selling tickets until they get the clear green light from Tribal Leadership that they can resume running tours. I would recommend monitoring the official website of the Navajo Parks & Recreation Department periodically. In the meantime, I would count on moving any “Plan B” options to “Plan A” status. A popular option last year was kayak tours into the waterside of Antelope Canyon, which include some hiking into the “pre-slot” portion of the Lower Canyon which is on Federal and not Tribal land. While the scenery isn’t the “classic” slot canyon views depicted in postcards of Antelope Canyon, judging by the number of sold out days last year, people didn’t seem to mind a bit! There are several companies offering this tour, but the one we’re most familiar with is the Hidden Canyon Kayak Antelope Canyon Tour.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 22, 2021 at 5:55 PM

Hi Jerri,
I’m so sorry it took so long to reply to your question, it kinda got buried… one of the drawbacks, albeit rare, to this format.
Anyway… late September/early October is a great time to be here, and we are crossing fingers and toes that these closures will be lifted by then!
That said, I would not count on being able to visit Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley.. in the traditional sense anyway. But there are still ways you can see them.
A popular alternative to the land-side tours of Antelope Canyons last year, that is continuing to see good traction this year, is to take a kayak tour into the waterside of Antelope Canyon from Antelope Point Marina, which include some hiking into the pre-slot portion of the Lower Canyon on the shoreline of Lake Powell, which is on Federal and not Tribal land.
Should Monument Valley remain off-limits at the time of your visit, a way you can still tick it off your wish list is to fly over it. Fixed-wing airplanes depart from the Page Municipal Airport daily, weather permitting, and usually first thing in the morning for better light and lack of wind. Monument Valley Air Tours out of Page, AZ, last approximately 90 minutes and will show you a good chunk of Lake Powell as well!
In light of those concerns, I would recommend spending at least 2 nights in Page, AZ. Any extra time you might end up with should be given to Zion. That’s a big and gorgeous park with lots to see and do.
Hope that helps. Again, sorry for the late reply, it wasn’t intentional at all.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 18, 2021 at 4:04 PM

Hi Liliana,
Thank you for further clarification of your trip plans.
Your National Park Pass grants you entrance to all National Parks, Monuments, and Federal Fee Areas in the U.S. for one year’s time. Areas where it won’t work are State Parks, Native American Tribal Parks, and City-administered parks. Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ, is an example of a city park; even those with National Park Passes must pay the $10/standard passenger vehicle or $35/light commercial vehicle fee for admission to the parking lot. Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon (which are closed indefinitely due to COVID-19) are Native American Tribal Parks, so here again, your Park Pass wouldn’t work, but seeing as though they’re closed, it’s kind of a moot point. In Sedona, AZ, popular attractions such as Slide Rock State Park also require entrance fees (or you can get a Red Rock Pass)
During the summer months, you’ll need to plan on visiting any true-desert areas, such as the Valley of Fire State Park, just after sunrise if you want to enjoy any hiking or sightseeing. Otherwise, it will be too ghastly hot to even get out of your car.
If LA is your starting point, you should plan on breaking up the drive into two days, maybe with a stopover in Lake Havasu City, AZ (~5 hours from LAX), so the kids can enjoy some swimming? From there, here’s what I’d recommend:
Day 1: Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim, overnight in Grand Canyon
Day 2: 2nd day/night at Grand Canyon South Rim
Day 3: Drive from Grand Canyon South Rim to Page, AZ. Here again, you’ll hit a COVID-19 closure: due to AZ64 East being inaccessible from Desert View Point to Cameron, AZ, you’ll have to detour down through Flagstaff, AZ, then proceed North on US89 to Page, AZ, which is ~a 5-hour drive. Hit Horseshoe Bend on the way into town, overnight in Page
Day 4: Take kayak tour into waterside of Antelope Canyon that include some hiking into the pre-slot areas of the lower canyon, which is on Federal Land OR take a self-guided hike to Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch; drive to Bryce Canyon that afternoon (~2.5 hours from Page, AZ), overnight in Bryce Canyon
Day 5: Drive to Zion National Park, sightseeing on the Zion Canyon Shuttle (advance ticket purchase may be required), overnight in Springdale, UT
Day 6: 2nd day/night in Zion National Park, time/desire/physical fitness permitting, you might hike Angel’s Landing or The Narrows on this day, 2nd night in Springdale
Day 7: Get an early start on the day, drive to Las Vegas (~3 hours), detour through Valley of Fire, end of vacay!
Custom trip map
If you find you have more time to spend, maybe give a 2nd night to Page, AZ, so you can explore that area further.
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 11, 2021 at 5:53 PM

Hi Liliana,
Most National Parks and Monuments administered by the National Park Service are open to tourism, with restrictions that may vary from park to park due to COVID-19.
Areas that are likely to remain closed into the summer months are Navajo Indian Tribal Parks, such as the Antelope Canyons and Monument Valley. Should that be the case at the time you visit, alternatives for visiting these areas are:
– Kayak tours into waterside of Antelope Canyon that include some hiking into the pre-slot areas of the lower canyon, which is on Federal Land
– self-guided hikes to Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT, or guided tours to Red Canyon/aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT
If seeing Monument Valley was a high priority, an alternative to a car trip would be to fly over it out of Page, AZ. Fixed wing airplanes depart out of the Page Municipal Airport daily, weather permitting, and possibly contingent on a certain number of passengers traveling. Scenic air tours take ~90 minutes and will show you a sizeable chunk of Lake Powell in addition to Monument Valley!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 11, 2021 at 5:07 PM

Hey again, Carolyn!
You might indeed encounter more stable weather in late May, but you’ll also encounter more people, and all that that implies 😉
As for whether Monument Valley and/or Antelope Canyon might reopen by then, short answer is, we don’t know. The best site to monitor for the status of that is Navajo Parks & Recreation Department.
One option I didn’t mention when replying to your original inquiry is that if Monument Valley remains closed at the time of your visit, whenever that should happen to be, it is possible to fly over it out of Page, AZ. Fixed-wing airplanes depart daily, weather permitting, and possibly contingent on a certain number of passengers traveling, out of the Page Municipal Airport. A scenic air tour over Monument Valley lasts approximately 90 minutes, and will show you a lot of amazing scenery, including a good sized chunk of Lake Powell.
Also: if that jeep tour I mentioned in reply to your previous inquiry does not appeal, there are still a number of good day hikes you can do in the Grand Canyon, but attempting to go from rim to river and back in one day’s time is strongly discouraged by the National Park Service. You might consider going as far as Cedar Ridge or even Skeleton Point on the South Kaibab Trail. Use of a shuttle is required to get to the trailhead, and that trail has no piped in water, so you’d need to carry your own. Grand Canyon day hikes
Good luck and have a wonderful time!
Alley 🙂

March 11, 2021 at 3:27 PM

Hey Carolyn,
Unfortunately, any predictions for the reopening of the Antelope Canyons and/or Monument Valley are premature at this time, so I would advise counting the Antelope Canyons out of the equation just to be on the safe side. The good news is there are other slot canyons that are just as beautiful, and not subject to the closure of the Navajo Indian Reservation.
Another expectation you’re going to have to temper is hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. This is definitely NOT a day hike, it should be done as an overnight camping trip, or with reservations at Phantom Ranch, both of which fill up months in advance. However, there might still be a way you can work bragging rights to having been to the canyon floor into your trip. More on that in a minute…
So, working with your arrival and departure times (which I SO appreciate you providing!), here’s what I’d recommend:
March 26th: Arrive in Las Vegas, drive to Williams, AZ (~3.5 hours), overnight in Williams
March 27th: Take the Inner Canyon Jeep Tour, which goes down the Diamond Creek Road on Native American Tribal Land, optional hike into Diamond Creek Narrows, 2nd night in Williams
March 28th: Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim (~1 hour each way from Williams), either overnight at the South Rim, or return to Williams
March 29th: Drive to Page, AZ — if you stay the night prior at the Grand Canyon, you’ll have to detour down through Flagstaff, AZ, then proceed North on US89 to Page, AZ, which is ~a 5-hour drive; if you overnight in Williams, AZ, the night prior, then the drive is more along the lines of ~3 hours. Hit Horseshoe Bend on the way into town, overnight in Page
March 30th: Take kayak tour into waterside of Antelope Canyon, which includes hiking into pre-slot portion of Lower Canyon on Federal Land, OR drive to Paria, UT ~45 minutes from Page, AZ, and hike Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch, 2nd night in Page, AZ OR drive to Bryce that afternoon (~2.5 hours from Page)
March 31st: Drive to Bryce Canyon if you didn’t do it the day before (~2.5 hours from Page, AZ), sightseeing/hiking in Bryce Canyon, overnight in Bryce Canyon area
April 1st: Drive to Zion National Park (~2 hours from Bryce), take Zion Canyon Shuttle to popular trails such as Weeping Rock, Upper Emerald Pools, etc. Overnight in Springdale, UT.
April 2nd: Hike Angel’s Landing or The Narrows; the latter involves walking through water pretty much constantly, so you’ll need to rent a dry suit, poles, water shoes, etc. You can get these from a number of local outfitters. Overnight in Springdale, UT.
April 3rd: Drive to Las Vegas, NV (~3 hours from Springdale, UT), optional detour through Valley of Fire State Park (stunning!), sightseeing in Las Vegas. Great way to see Las Vegas’ famous hotels? Fly over them in on a nighttime helicopter flight!
Trip map
Whatever you decide, be sure that you time all your drives so that you’re at your final destination for the day by nightfall. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the U.S. due to local roads being very dimly lit, plus the possible presence of deer, elk, and other wildlife that could hike up your risk of an auto accident. Trust me, that’s not something you want to risk in an unfamiliar area that’s pitch black, freezing cold, where cell service is spotty (if you can get any bars at all), and help will be a long time coming, not to mention VERY expensive! At the time of your visit, sunrise takes place at around 6:15 AM, and sunset occurs approximately 6:45 PM. That’s Arizona/Mountain Standard Time. Utah will be one hour ahead of AZ.
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 11, 2021 at 3:08 PM

Hi Josef,
This site does not administer the issuance of hiking permits for The Wave. In your case, the online lottery has already taken place, so you must see if you can have any luck at the walk-in lottery. This is held at the Kanab Center Gymnasium in Kanab, UT, the day PRIOR to when you wish to hike. For more information, visit the official KanabCenter.com/Wave Lottery
Because Wave permits are highly sought-after, and April is considered one of the peak times of year to hike it, I would strongly recommend looking to alternative areas around the Wave that you might visit. The most popular of these is White Pocket. We recommend going with a guided tour due to the difficult and rugged terrain on the access road there. There are several tour companies that go to this area, but the ones we are most familiar with are Paria Outpost, Dreamland Safari Tours, and Vermilion Adventures.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

March 05, 2021 at 10:43 PM

Dear Mr./Ms. Hoffman,
Thank you for visiting our site!
Unfortunately, a couple of important pieces of information are missing from this inquiry:
1. when this family might be looking to travel
2. the makeup of the group – little kids? seniors?
Those bits of trivia notwithstanding, you’re going to have to trim down that wish list considerably, or set aside more time to accomplish it.
The most likely item you’ll have to eliminate is Coyote Buttes and The Wave. This unique and geologically fragile area only allows for a limited number of hikers per day, through a very competitive permit process. How To Get A Permit For The Wave If this family’s trip is coming up within the next 3 months, they might try their hand at the walk-in lottery in Kanab, UT, the day prior to when they wish to hike, but there again, statistically, the odds don’t run in their favor. They should start looking at “Plan B” options, the most popular of which being White Pocket. This is a stunning area, with easy hiking and ample photo ops, and unbelievably, doesn’t require a permit (yet!). The hard part is getting there. The access road is through some very deep sand. Inexperienced drivers in vehicles with lower clearance frequently get stuck out there, and the tow bills are VERY expensive. Best to go with a guided tour for optimal comfort and safety. Guided Tours to White Pocket & The Wave
Next item that is likely going to be a “no-can-do:” Rainbow Bridge. Rainbow Bridge is located 50+ miles uplake from Page, AZ on Lake Powell. There is no road access there. The only way to get there is by boat, and Lake Powell Boat Tours are currently suspended due to COVID-19. Should they be reinstated by the time your family visits, it’s going to be an all-day commitment, requiring a hike of ~2-3 miles round-trip from the boat dock to the Bridge. Should that not be feasible, another way to see Rainbow Bridge is to fly over it. Fixed-wing airplanes depart out of the Page Municipal Airport daily, weather permitting, and possibly contingent on a certain number of passengers traveling. Touring aircraft do not land at the Bridge, but an air tour is a wonderful way to get a sense for how big Lake Powell is, and the beauty of the surrounding areas.
Your supplier is correct that the Antelope Canyons are currently closed. The Navajo Tribe is optimistically (meaning crossing fingers and toes) hoping that they will reopen by April, but whether that happens remains to be seen. One way that Antelope Canyon can be accessed, legally and enjoyably, is by taking a kayak tour to the waterside of Antelope Canyon from Antelope Point Marina, then hiking into the transitional zone between the shoreline of Lake Powell and the slot canyons. This area is on Federal land, so it is still accessible.
Alstrom Point is accessible by private vehicle (4WD with adequate clearance advised) or by guided tour. Tours take roughly 4 hours. Whether you opt for self-driving or a guided tour to visit Alstrom Point, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women or parties with children under 6.
Driving from Page, AZ, to St. George, UT, will take you past the Western edge of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and here you have a wonderful opportunity to take a relatively easy but very scenic hike: to the Paria Rimrocks and Toadstool Hoodoos. The trailhead is at mile marker 19 on US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT. Should Antelope Slot Canyons remain closed and hiking a slot canyon remains high on the priority list, another opportunity you might pursue is Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT. This video depicts a young family doing both hikes, so be sure to watch the whole thing. Besides, the little guy doing the narrating is SO cute LOL YouTube Look Who’s Blogging Wire Pass Canyon & The Toadstool Hoodoos
Long story short, 2-3 days would be a more realistic timeframe to tick off all the items on your checklist that are accessible.
I hope this helps, I know it’s a lot to process. Feel free to contact me directly if I can be of further assistance at horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com
Alley 🙂

March 04, 2021 at 5:41 PM

Hi Amod,
Glad you got the news about the Antelope Canyons being closed. Unfortunately, I have to relay another piece of bad news: Monument Valley is also a Native American Tribal Park, and is also closed to outsiders 🙁 Best to take it off the table this time around, but there might still be a way for you to see it. More on that in a minute 😉
Since Monument Valley has been taken off the itinerary, that frees up time for you to explore and enjoy Sedona, AZ! In light of that, here’s what I’d recommend:
March 27th: Drive from Las Vegas, NV, to Sedona, AZ (~5 hour drive), overnight in Sedona
March 28th: 2nd day/night in Sedona; no shortage of hiking and sightseeing! For suggestions, check out VisitSedona.com
March 29th: Drive from Sedona, AZ to Grand Canyon South Rim (~3 hours), hike paved Rim Trail, maybe go a short way down the Bright Angel Trail, overnight at Grand Canyon
March 30th: Drive from Grand Canyon South Rim to Page, AZ (this will be a 5-hour drive due to the necessity of detouring through Flagstaff, AZ, due to the COVID-19 closure of AZ64 from Desert View Point to Cameron), stop at Horseshoe Bend on the way into town, overnight in Page, AZ
March 31st: Take fixed-wing airplane flight over Monument Valley, drive to Kanab, UT (~70 minutes from Page, AZ), overnight in Kanab, UT
April 1st: Early AM tour of Red Canyon/Peek-A-Boo Canyon (several companies offer this, the one we’re most familiar with is Dreamland Safari Tours), then drive to Bryce Canyon (~90 minutes), overnight in Bryce Canyon area
April 2nd: Drive from Bryce Canyon to Zion (~2 hours), overnight in Springdale, UT ***Note that you’ll need to use the Zion Canyon Shuttle to access the main sightseeing area of the park, which may require advance purchase of tickets***
April 3rd: 2nd day/night at Zion OR drive back to Las Vegas in afternoon (~3-3.5 hour drive); if desired, detour through Valley of Fire State Park (gorgeous!) on the way back to Las Vegas
Trip map
If necessary, you could also do this itinerary in reverse if lodging availability (or lack thereof) dictated doing so. Lodging should be the first thing you get to sorting out, if you haven’t done so already.
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
horseshoe.bend.az@gmail.com

February 25, 2021 at 5:26 PM

_________________________________________

From Amod

Alley,

Thank you very much. I really appreciate it. Yes, you are correct about lodging–we will plan accordingly.

February 25, 2021 at 6:39 PM

Hi Carlyn,
Thank you so much for your compliments!
It is not only a good idea to stop in Page, AZ, on your way from Grand Canyon Village to Big Water, UT, you have to pass through there anyway. That makes Horseshoe Bend a convenient and Instagrammable stop on your tour. What’s not so convenient is the fact that you will have to make a rather long detour to get from “Point A” (Grand Canyon) to “Point B” (Big Water, UT): due to the COVID-19 related closure of AZ64 from Desert View Point to Cameron, AZ, you’ll have to drive all the way back to Flagstaff, AZ, then bounce back up North via US89. This has turned what would normally be ~a 3-3.5 hour drive into more of a 5+ hour drive. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news in that regard.
Speaking of COVID-19 closures, the Antelope Canyons fall under this umbrella as well since they are situated on Navajo Indian Tribal Land. They are optimistically hoping to reopen in mid-April, but this may be a little too late to help you. You should definitely consider some “Plan B” options. The most popular last year was the Kayak/Hiking Tour into the waterside of Antelope Canyon, which occurs on Federal Land, therefore not affected by the Tribal Park closure. Another alternate activity you might enjoy is a jeep tour into the Cottonwood Wash Narrows. The drive to Las Vegas the next day would take ~5 hours.
Note that in April, nights might still get nippy, so bring a nice pair of warm pajamas for your stay at Under Canvas. You will be one of the first guests to stay at this one-of-a-kind glamping facility – hope you enjoy it, and that you might tell us how things went if you get a moment when you return home!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

February 22, 2021 at 6:15 PM

Hi Jennifer,
The short answer to this question is, we don’t know.
The Antelope Canyons are located on Navajo Indian Tribal Lands, so it is their call as to when these popular attractions might reopen. I recommend monitoring the official website of the Navajo Parks & Recreation Department for current information.
Should the Antelope Canyons remain closed at the time of your visit, I would recommend hiking either Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT, or Red Canyon/aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT. Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which is usually full of deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. A makeshift ladder may sometimes be available. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road and hikers pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead or you can purchase a day pass online. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, http://www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon: not to be confused with Peek-A-Boo Canyon in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument! This family-friendly slot canyon is located between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah, approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. For those who would prefer to explore Peek-A-Boo in the safety and comfort of a guided tour, there are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
Kayaking into the waterside of Antelope Canyon from Antelope Point Marina, then hiking into the section of the canyon on the shoreline of Lake Powell, which is Federal and not Tribal land, was also a popular alternative last year. Although that part of Antelope Canyon doesn’t boast the classic slot canyon scenery of Lower or Upper Antelope, judging from the number of sold out dates last year, people didn’t mind it a bit. Early April would most likely be a nice time for kayaking, too, so definitely consider this activity should you need a “plan B” to salvage your trip. Hidden Canyon Kayak Antelope Canyon Tour
Lastly, bear in mind that it’s ~a 5-hour drive, one way from Las Vegas to Page, AZ. Due to the driving distance, and the fact that you should avoid driving at night if at all possible, we recommend spending at least one night in Page, AZ, to enjoy these and many other activities and attractions the town has to offer!
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

February 16, 2021 at 4:00 PM

Hi Bersujud,
I’m so sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the kayak tour outfitters won’t resume operating until the first week of March this year. If you are able to delay your visit a few days, you would be able to take a tour as early as March 1st. As for what you should wear, light layers are generally recommended, but you might wish to invest in a dry suit for the unlikely event your kayak capsizes. Your kayak tour company would be the best place to consult for advice on clothing and other gear. Feel free to call them at (928) 660-1836.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

February 03, 2021 at 9:39 PM

Hi Edgar,
Unfortunately, the Antelope Canyons are still closed. If a slot canyon remains high on your to-do list, which we wouldn’t blame you a bit for, there are some alternatives.
Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which is usually full of deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. A makeshift ladder may sometimes be available. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road and hikers pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, http://www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon: not to be confused with Peek-A-Boo Canyon in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, this family-friendly slot canyon is located between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah, approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. For those who would prefer to explore Peek-A-Boo in the safety and comfort of a guided tour, there are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
Grand Canyon National Park remains open to visitation, with some limits on available services. For a complete list, visit www.NPS.gov: Grand Canyon
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

February 02, 2021 at 5:35 PM

Hi Jennifer,
Unfortunately, we don’t know. The Antelope Canyons are expected to remain closed through Spring, optimistically.
If seeing a slot canyon remains high on your priority list — which we wouldn’t blame you a bit for! — there are other options. Pumphouse Wash, from what I understand (I haven’t been there personally) is a beautiful canyon and a relatively easy hike, best of all, it’s on the outskirts of Sedona. You might have to trudge through a few pools, but in May, the cool water should be welcome.
If you’re planning on visiting the Page, AZ, area anyway, there are two other beautiful slot canyons a short drive away that you’d probably enjoy as well. Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch, and Red Canyon/aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon.
Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which may feature deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. A makeshift ladder may sometimes be available. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Look for some bighorn sheep petroglyphs dating back hundreds, maybe thousands of years! Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road. Hikers are required to pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon: not to be confused with Peek-A-Boo Canyon in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, this family-friendly slot canyon is located between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah, approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. If you want to try your hand at self-driving, go 7.5 miles past the Kanab, UT, city limit sign on US 89; turn onto BLM road #102 and follow it 4 miles in until you find the parking area. For those who would prefer to explore Peek-A-Boo in the safety and comfort of a guided tour, there are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, www.vermilioncliffs.net
Another option: kayaking into the waterside of Antelope Canyon with a rental kayak or guided tour from Antelope Point Marina. Depending on the water level of Lake Powell, you can probably hike into the extreme lower end of the slot canyon where it empties into the lake. This section of Antelope Canyon is on Federal and not Tribal Land. For more information, visit AntelopeCanyon.AZ: Lake Powell Hidden Canyon Kayak Tour
Sorry we couldn’t be more specific on what will be available come May. Hope you have a great time, regardless!
Alley 🙂

February 01, 2021 at 6:14 PM

Hey Brenda,
According to Lake Powell Hidden Canyon Kayak (whose trip is featured in this article), their operating season is February 15th through October 31st. There could be some slight differences due to COVID-19, so if you want to inquire about that, you could give them a call at (928) 660-1836, or e-mail info@canyonkayak.com
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

January 20, 2021 at 5:26 PM

Hi Kristen,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Antelope Canyons are slated to remain closed until Spring of 2021, and that’s being optimistic.
A good “plan B” option is Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon in Kanab, UT. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, Peek-A-Boo Canyon offers a short but memorable walk featuring classic slot canyon scenery, as well as some striking and unique geological formations. Plus it’s accessible to all ages and fitness levels. While a guided tour is technically not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you take one anyway due to the potentially hazardous terrain of the access road. Tour companies that can get you to Peek-A-Boo Canyon are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
Tours of Peek-A-Boo Canyon last ~4 hours. Between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, another fun and relatively easy hike is the Paria Rimrocks/Toadstool Hoodoos. If something more rugged than Peek-A-Boo Canyon is more your speed, you might enjoy the hike through Wire Pass Canyon to Buckskin Gulch, which is mid-way between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on US89. For more information, including some recent footage of the trail, check out this video of the Wire Pass Trail to Buckskin Gulch Slot Canyon plus the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail, Utah
Again, sorry to be a buzzkill.
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy New Year!
Alley 🙂

January 15, 2021 at 8:03 PM

Hello, we are planning to visit the upper Canyon but We Will rent a car, so if we want to book With you where we have to go to take the tour

September 12, 2021 at 6:27 PM

_________________________________________

From Alley Keosheyan

Hi Maria,
Our preferred Upper Antelope Canyon tour company, Chief Tsosie’s Antelope Slot Canyon Tours, departs out of a storefront in Page, AZ, located at 55 South Lake Powell Boulevard.
If you prefer to drive your rental car down to the canyon’s entrance on US98, the tour companies to book with are:
– Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours, 928-698-3384 https://navajotours.com
– Adventurous Antelope Canyon Photo Tours, (928) 614-4919 or (928) 640-6808, https://www.navajoantelopecanyon.com/
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

September 13, 2021 at 4:51 PM

Hi Gregory,
Since your comment was posted on the article on how to get a permit for The Wave, I assume that you’re inquiring specifically about The Wave. If so, I must tell you that the hike to this area is a moderately difficult 6-mile round-trip walk, and the trail is inaccessible to wheelchairs. So if you are disabled in the sense of having limited mobility, then The Wave probably isn’t a realistic activity for you to consider, at least, not for hiking. You do have the option of flying over it in a fixed-wing airplane or helicopter. While a flight would not land at the Wave, and would probably be kind of pricey, it would show you a ton of amazing scenery in addition to The Wave that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to get to by any means.
For more information on flying over The Wave, visit our companion site, www.TheWaveAZ.com and read the article “So You Didn’t Get A Wave Permit; Now What?”
If for some reason, I failed to adequately answer your particular question, please write in again, or visit our other companion site, www.HorseshoeBend.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂

January 13, 2021 at 7:43 PM

Hi Yadira,
The short answer re: Antelope Canyon is, we don’t know. “Officially,” the closure of the Antelope Canyons was slated to last through the end of 2020, but local tour companies are now saying that it could very well be extended into Spring 2021 or beyond.
We recommend you start looking to a “Plan B,” which, for most families is Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon in Kanab, UT. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, Peek-A-Boo Canyon offers a short but memorable walk featuring classic slot canyon scenery, as well as some striking and unique geological formations. Plus it’s accessible to all ages and fitness levels. While a guided tour is technically not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you take one anyway due to the potentially hazardous terrain of the access road. Tour companies that can get you to Peek-A-Boo Canyon are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
For updated information on the status of the Antelope Canyons and COVID-19 lockdowns, visit http://www.NavajoNationParks.org
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy New Year,
Alley 🙂

January 08, 2021 at 5:45 PM

Hi Kristina,
Apologies for taking so long to respond to your inquiry.
First of all, Hidden Canyon is the name of a kayak tour provider. It is one of several companies offering kayak tours into the waterside of Antelope Canyon. Depending on the level of Lake Powell, you can sometimes hike into the beginning of the slot canyon as long as you remain on Federal and not Tribal Land.
The segments of Antelope Canyon referred to as “Upper” and “Lower” are accessed via walking tours, which are closed at the moment due to COVID-19. I don’t recall seeing when you were planning to travel, but Antelope Canyon kayak tours are on seasonal hiatus right now and probably won’t resume operating until February or March, weather permitting. Kayak tours meet at Antelope Point Marina, ~5 miles Southeast of Page, AZ. Children 5 and up are welcome to participate in kayak tours.
Hope that helps. Good luck, safe travels, and Happy New Year!
Alley 🙂

January 04, 2021 at 4:51 PM

Hi Deb,
I’ll start with the kinda-bad news first: 99% probability that The Wave won’t be an option. This group of unique and fragile rock formations is in a restricted area, the Coyote Buttes North Special Management Area, and requires a permit to enter. Only 20 people per day are allowed to hike to The Wave; 10 places are given out by advance online lottery (which has already occurred), and another 10 are dispensed the day prior to when one wishes to hike at the Kanab, UT, Convention Center. How To Get A Wave Permit
Fortunately, you’ll find many other cool places to hike that don’t require a permit to visit. You might enjoy the hike through Wire Pass Canyon to Buckskin Gulch, which is mid-way between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on US89. For more information, including some recent footage of the trail, check out this video Wire Pass Trail to Buckskin Gulch Slot Canyon | Toadstool Hoodoos Trail, Utah A guide or permit is not needed to explore this area, but be sure to inquire locally about recent conditions on the House Rock Valley Road, which is unpaved.
Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ, will be open, barring super-bad weather or any other bizarre occurrence. As for the trails you mentioned in Sedona, AZ, I can’t find any indications that they are closed, but you might want to inquire at your hotel or local visitors center before heading out.
One thing that raises a “red flag” is that it looks like you’re planning to visit Grand Canyon South Rim as a “drive-by” between Page, AZ, and Sedona. I would advise against that. The drive from Page, AZ, to Grand Canyon South Rim normally takes ~3 hours. At the present time, however, the Navajo Tribe has opted to close an integral component of that route, AZ64 from Cameron, AZ, to Desert View Point, due to COVID-19. This means that it is now necessary to drive all the way down to Flagstaff, AZ, from Page, on US89 then back up North to the Grand Canyon via US180/AZ64 or I40/AZ64. This has turned a 3-hour drive into more like a 5-hour drive. You would then be facing another ~3 hour drive to get to Sedona afterwards, at a time of year when you don’t have much daylight to work with. On January 10th, sunrise takes place at 7:40 AM and sunset occurs at around 5:30 PM. This is barely 10 hours of daylight, and you’re already proposing to eat up 8 hours of it driving.
If you’re thinking you’ll drive to Sedona after sunset, think again. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the U.S. due to local roads being very dimly lit, and the possible presence of deer, elk, and other wildlife that could elevate your risk of an auto accident. Trust me, that’s not something you want to risk in an unfamiliar area that’s pitch black, freezing cold, where cell service is spotty (if you can get any bars at all), and help will be a long time coming, not to mention VERY expensive. A better plan would be to spend the night at the Grand Canyon. This will require taking a night away from either Page, AZ, or Sedona, AZ. As much as I hate to say it, Page, AZ, would probably be the better place to reduce your time at. What with water-based activities being on seasonal hiatus, 2 days should be plenty of time to have a perfectly enjoyable visit. Sedona, on the other hand, you could spend 4-5 days and still feel as though you’d only scratched the surface of all the area has to offer!
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy New Year,
Alley 🙂

December 29, 2020 at 5:38 PM

Hi Mary,
The short answer is, we don’t know. “Officially,” the closure of the Antelope Canyons is slated to last through the end of 2020, but local rumor has it that it could very well be extended into Spring 2021.
We recommend you start looking to a “Plan B,” which, for most families is Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon in Kanab, UT. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, Peek-A-Boo Canyon offers a short but memorable walk featuring classic slot canyon scenery, as well as some striking and unique geological formations. Plus it’s accessible to all ages and fitness levels. While a guided tour is technically not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you take one anyway due to the potentially hazardous terrain of the access road. Tour companies that can get you to Peek-A-Boo Canyon are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
For updated information on the status of the Antelope Canyons and COVID-19 lockdowns, visit http://www.NavajoNationParks.org
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy Holidays,
Alley 🙂

December 13, 2020 at 9:41 PM

Hi Andrew,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Antelope Canyons will be closed to all access at the time of year you’re visiting. You cannot simply park and walk in at will. Since the land-side of Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyons, and its other drainages such as Antelope Canyon X, etc., are situated on Navajo Indian Tribal Land, attempting to get there by any other means than a guided tour constitutes trespassing, and all that that implies.
If seeing a slot canyon remains high on your priority list — and we wouldn’t blame you at all if it did! — our best recommendation is to visit Red Canyon/aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, Peek-A-Boo Canyon offers a short but memorable walk featuring classic slot canyon scenery, as well as some unique formations such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is technically not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you take one anyway. The walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, but the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate deep sand. Even then, people still get stuck. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain to the vehicle. Reputable tour companies that can get you to Peek-A-Boo Canyon are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
For updated information on the status of the Antelope Canyons and COVID-19 lockdowns, visit www.NavajoNationParks.org
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy Holidays,
Alley 🙂

November 30, 2020 at 2:07 PM

Hi Nay,
Your plan is OK, but still warrants a couple of minor “reality checks” IMO.
The drive from Phoenix, AZ, to Horseshoe Bend (Page, AZ) takes approximately 5 hours. The trip from Horseshoe Bend to Flagstaff, AZ, takes ~2.5. So that’s ~8 hours you’re proposing to spend on the road on a day where you have only 10 hours of daylight to work with (sunrise occurs around 7:00 AM, sunset takes place just after 5:00 PM). You want to make sure you’re doing all driving during daylight hours, especially in Northern Arizona, where roads are very dimly lit, and deer, elk, and other nocturnal wildlife could be moving about, which ratchets up your risk of an accident. Trust me, you don’t want to chance a collision with a large animal in an unfamiliar area that’s pitch black, freezing cold, where cell service is spotty to non-exisent, and help will be a long time coming, not to mention VERY expensive!
A better plan would be to drive to Page, AZ, the 27th, and spend the night. Then spend the better part of next day sightseeing, drive to Flagstaff, AZ, on the 28th, then proceed with your plans at the Grand Canyon. As for what you’d be able to accomplish in a day and a half, quite a lot. When you arrive, park your vehicle in the Grand Canyon Village area and talk a walk along the easy, paved Grand Canyon Rim Trail. If you want, you could venture out along the Hermit’s Road and hit some of those overlooks, then hop on the free shuttle when you’ve had enough of walking. Another option would be to drive out the East Rim/Desert View Drive and explore some of those viewpoints, although you would only be able to get as far as Navajo Point; Desert View itself is closed due to COVID-19 unfortunately. Guided tours in the park have also been cancelled due to COVID-19, but you don’t really need one to get the most out of your visit. The Grand Canyon is one of the easier National Parks in the system to self-tour. As for where to stay, it is best to stay inside the park if at all possible, but those hotels may already be sold out. If that’s the case, look to Tusayan, AZ, 7 miles outside the park, or Williams, AZ, 1 hour South of the park. Grand Canyon South Rim hotels
As for weather, late November is typically cold, with snow a very real possibility in the higher elevations, such as the South Rim. Be prepared for winter conditions from sunny and brisk to out and out blizzard. Of course, it’s too soon to know for certain, but begin monitoring local weather about 2 weeks before you get set to travel. That will give you the best idea of what to expect.
Good luck, safe travels, and Happy Holidays!
Alley 🙂

November 09, 2020 at 2:50 PM